Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga
MP for Maungakiekie

24 October 2013

Maungakiekie MP welcomes Veterans Support Bill

Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga, MP for Maungakiekie, welcomes the first reading of the Veterans Support Bill. The bill replaces the outdated War Pensions Act 1954 and gives effect to the recommendations of the Law Commission’s 2010 report.

The bill was referred to the Social Services Select Committee for consideration and will be reported back to Parliament by 27 March 2013.

“This bill is part of a $60 million package of changes and provides for the most comprehensive reform of veterans’ entitlements in 60 years.” Mr Lotu-Iiga says.

“The Bill will allow the Government to better meet the needs of older veterans who want to stay in their own homes. It will also help veterans of modern day and future deployments who require rehabilitation and assistance to return to work”

“No veteran will have their current entitlement reduced and many veterans and their family members will benefit from increased entitlements, care, and support.”

“In my electorate of Maungakiekie, many veterans and their families have told me that they find the current system of support outdated. I want to acknowledge in particular the hard work of a local constituent, Margaret Burke. She has spent the last 12 years assisting veterans to claim the war disablement pension. Since becoming an MP, I have worked closely with her to advocate stronger for the plight of war veterans.

“Margaret was honoured by the Government in 2010 with a Queens Service Medal for Services to Veterans Affairs. She continues to advocate passionately for veterans to ensure that they get the care and support they deserve.”

“As Chair of the Social Services Committee, I look forward to hearing from New Zealanders on the issue of supporting and caring for our veterans.”

“Our veterans have given much of their lives to the service of our country and we owe it to them to ensure we look after them with dignity and respect.”

For more information on the bill: http://veteransaffairs.mil.nz/veterans-support-bill/index.html

--ENDS—

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